DIY Umrah: Affordable & Comfortable Hotels in Madinah Beyond the Haram

DIY Umrah: Affordable & Comfortable Hotels in Madinah Beyond the Haram

As the spiritual heart of Islam, Madinah welcomes millions of pilgrims annually. While hotels within walking distance of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi command premium prices due to high demand and ongoing urban development , savvy travelers can discover exceptional value by exploring neighborhoods rich in Islamic history. This guide highlights affordable 3-star+ hotels in Madinah’s lesser-known areas, offering comfort, convenience, and deeper spiritual connections through visits to sites like Uhud, Qiblatayn, and Quba.

Google Map : Routes from Al Masjid an Nabawi -> Archers' Hill Uhud -> Masjid Al Qiblatayn -> Masjid Quba -> Archers' Hill Uhud

Why Madinah’s Central Hotels Are Expensive

Hotels near Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, such as the Leader Al Muna Kareem Hotel (70 meters from Gate 25)  or Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick (a 2-minute walk away) , prioritize proximity above all else. Their prime locations justify higher rates (e.g., SAR1,500+ per night during peak seasons) due to:

• High demand from pilgrims seeking easy prayer access.
• Limited space in central zones, exacerbated by ongoing development projects.
• Premium amenities like Haram views, direct mall access, and luxury services.

However, Madinah’s efficient transportation network—including free shuttles, taxis, and ride-hailing apps like Careem—makes outer areas equally viable. By staying slightly farther, pilgrims can reduce costs by 30–50% while enriching their journey with historical exploration.

North: Uhud Area – The Mountain of Faith

Historical Significance: Mount Uhud is the site of the Battle of Uhud (625 CE), where Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions faced adversity. The mountain itself is beloved by the Prophet  (ﷺ) , who said, "This is a mountain that loves us and we love it". The nearby Sayyid Al-Shuhada site honors martyrs like Sayyidina Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib (RA).

Staying in the north gives you proximity to this deeply moving site while still being a short ride from the Haram.

Hotel Recommendations:

Use the hotel search form below to explore and book accommodations via Trip.com. When booking, look for options that offer free cancellation and check verified guest reviews for honest feedback.

1. Zaha Taiba Hotel (Rating 8.3/10 - Very Good) Distance: 4.5 Km  from the Archers' Hill Uhud and 2.3 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) : From SAR 320/night.  Highlights: No free shuttle service, 36 minutes walk from Haram, spacious rooms, and breakfast included. Transport: Taxi or Uber or Careem at SAR 15-30 👉Booking Link : Zaha Taiba Hotel

2.The Seasons Hotels, Madinah (Rating 8.6/10 - Very Good) Distance: 1.6Km  from the Archers' Hill Uhud and 2.4 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) : From SAR 500/night.  Highlights: No free shuttle service. Rooms are spacious and comfortable beds Transport: Public bus available every 15 minutes from Abi Dharr Al Ghifari B to Al Salam Gate, Taxi SAR 30-55 to Haram, Uber or Careem SAR 20-30 to Haram 👉Booking Link : The Seasons Hotels

West: Qiblatayn Area – The Mosque of Two Qiblas

Historical Significance: Masjid Qiblatayn marks where Prophet Muhammad  (ﷺ)  received the divine command to change the direction of prayer (qibla) from Jerusalem to Makkah. Its architectural blend of ancient and modern design symbolizes Islamic unity.

Hotels in this area offer a quieter environment, with easier access to Madinah’s outer districts.

Hotel Recommendations:

Use the hotel search form below to explore and book accommodations via Trip.com. When booking, look for options that offer free cancellation and check verified guest reviews for honest feedback.

1. Faraj Almadina Hotel  (Rating 8.2/10 - Very Good) Distance: 5 Km from Qiblatayn Mosque and 2.7 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) : From SAR 462/night. Highlights: No free shuttle service. Gym, free parking, and spacious rooms praised for luxury ambiance. Transport: Public bus available every 15 minutes from Al Rayah B to Al Munakhah Tunnel B (Al Masjid an Nabawi). Taxi or Uber or Careem at SAR 45-60 to Haram 👉Booking Link : Faraj Almadina Hotel

2. Taba Al Salam  (Rating 8.6/10 - Very Good) Distance: 5.7 Km from Qiblatayn Mosque and 1.0 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) :From SAR 278/night. Highlights: Central location, clean rooms, and comfortable beds. Transport: Walking Distance to Haram 👉Booking Link : Taba Al Salam

South: Quba Area – Islam’s First Mosque

Historical Significance: Masjid Quba, the first mosque in Islamic history, was built by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) upon his migration to Madinah. Praying here holds immense reward, equivalent to performing an Umrah. The mosque’s marble courtyards and four minarets blend spirituality with architectural beauty.

This district is also seeing major development with the new Quba Boulevard project, connecting it more seamlessly to Al-Masjid An Nabawi.

Hotel Recommendations:

Use the hotel search form below to explore and book accommodations via Trip.com. When booking, look for options that offer free cancellation and check verified guest reviews for honest feedback.

1. Taiba Oasis Hotel Apartments   (Rating 7.5/10) Distance: 1  Km from  Quba Mosque and 2.5 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) : From SAR 200/night. Highlights: High guest ratings (7.5/10) and family-friendly spaces, and proximity to Quba. Transport: Walk to Quba Mosque or take taxis or Careem (SAR 10 to SAR 15) to the Haram. 👉Booking Link : Taiba Oasis Hotel Apartments

2. Radisson Hotel Madinah (Rating 9.5/10 Amazing) Distance:  0.8  Km from  Quba Mosque and 3.0 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Standard Twin Room)  From SAR 394/night.  Highlights: Elegant rooms and suites with modern décor, and proximity to Quba. Transport: Walk to Quba Mosque or take taxis or Careem (SAR 40 to SAR 60) to the Haram. 👉Booking Link : Radisson Hotel Madinah

East: Al-Iskan & Al-Khalidiyah Area

On the eastern side, districts like Al-Iskan and Al-Khalidiyah provide affordable, modern hotel options. These areas are less crowded, making them appealing for families or groups who prefer quieter stays.

You’ll also find access to local dining, shopping, and easy transport routes toward the Haram.

Hotel Recommendations:

Use the hotel search form below to explore and book accommodations via Trip.com. When booking, look for options that offer free cancellation and check verified guest reviews for honest feedback.

1. Al Asr Almasi Suite Apartments (Rating 9.5/10 Amazing ) Distance: 5.0 Km  from the Prophet’s Mosque. Price (Quadruple Room) : From SAR 90/night. Highlights: Air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi Transport: Taxis or  Careem ( estimated at SAR 20 to SAR 30) to the Haram. 👉Booking Link : Al Asr Almasi Suite Apartments

2. Yaqoot Al Madina Suites (Rating 8.2/10 Very Good) Highlights: Air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, concierge services Transport: Taxis or  Careem ( estimated at SAR 20 to SAR 30) to the Haram. 👉Booking Link : Yaqoot Al Madina Suites

Why Stay Beyond the Haram Area?

✅ More Affordable – Hotels just outside the Haram are often 30–50% cheaper.
✅ Comfortable Options – Many 3- and 4-star hotels with excellent facilities.
✅ Transport Made Easy – Free shuttle buses, taxis, and Careem make daily trips to Haram convenient.
✅ Explore More – Staying slightly further lets you explore Madinah’s historic mosques and landmarks.

How to Book Affordable Stays on Trip.com

All the hotels mentioned (and more) are available on Trip.com. The platform makes it easy to:

1. Compare prices and room types (quad sharing, twin sharing, family suites).
2. Use Price Filters: Set search parameters to "3-star hotels" and budget ranges (e.g., SAR100 – SAR500/night).
3. Check Discounts: Look for promotions like "free cancellation" or "breakfast included".
4. Read Reviews: Prioritize hotels with scores above 8/10 for cleanliness and service.
5. Book Early: Secure low-season rates (e.g., July or October) for savings up to 50%.
6. Combine flights and hotels in one seamless search.

👉 Use the Trip.com Hotel Search below to find the best deals for your dates.

Sample Hotel Search using the above Trip.com's Hotel Search Widget:

• Destination: Medina, Saudi Arabia.
• Dates: Select off-peak periods (e.g., post-Hajj).
• Filters: 3 stars, guest rating >8, free Wi-Fi.
• Results: Options like Faraj Almadina Hotel (SAR 462/night) or Taba Al Salam (SAR 278/night).

Budget-Friendly Spiritual Journey Tips

• Use Free Shuttles: Many hotels offer complimentary prayer-time shuttles.
• Combine Taxis & Walking: Share rides with fellow pilgrims for cost-sharing.
• Explore Historical Sites: Visit Uhud, Quba, and Qiblatayn via guided tours (arranged by hotel concierges).
• Dine Locally: Avoid hotel restaurants; try affordable Halal eateries like Al Baik (SAR15–SAR30/meal).

Conclusion: Embrace Madinah’s Full Experience

Madinah’s spiritual landscape extends far beyond the Haram’s immediate vicinity. By choosing hotels in areas like Uhud, Qiblatayn, or Quba, pilgrims can merge affordability with profound historical immersion. Use Trip.com to snag deals at 3-star gems, and let Madinah’s sacred sites—from the echoes of Uhud to the serenity of Quba—deepen your journey.

Ready to Explore?

• Search Hotels: Trip.com – Medina Hotels
• Plan Visits: Confirm prayer times and transportation via hotel concierges.
• Travel Smart: Pack modest attire, comfortable shoes, and a heart open to history.

May your stay in Madinah be blessed with convenience, insight, and divine connection! 🌙